The Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO) has appointed Cho Yoonmi as the new Director of its New Delhi office, effective 30 June 2026. Cho, a 25-year veteran of KTO, steps into the role at a time when India is one of the fastest-growing source markets for South Korean tourism.
In her new capacity, Cho will oversee KTO's marketing and trade relations across India and neighbouring regions, working to deepen partnerships with airlines, hotel groups, tour operators and travel agents. The New Delhi office, established in May 2008, serves as the primary hub for promoting South Korea's tourism offerings in the subcontinent.
India's Growing Importance for Korean Tourism
India has emerged as a priority market for KTO, with outbound travel to South Korea rising steadily over the past decade. Cho noted the strengthening ties between the two countries: “With 25 years at KTO, I've seen India become one of the most important and fastest-growing markets for Korea tourism. The bond between India and Korea has only grown stronger over the years, and I'll be working closely with industry partners to take Korea closer to becoming the ultimate destination for Indian travellers.”
Under her leadership, KTO India plans to expand promotional activities beyond Delhi and Mumbai into secondary cities such as Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Ahmedabad. The office will also ramp up collaboration with travel trade partners and media to boost visibility for South Korea's cultural, culinary and nature-based attractions.
Cho's appointment aligns with broader efforts by KTO to cater to evolving Indian traveller preferences. The organisation is expected to introduce innovative campaigns that go beyond traditional tourism promotion, focusing on immersive experiences such as K-culture festivals, food tours and wellness retreats. These initiatives aim to appeal to younger, affluent Indian travellers who seek authentic and personalised journeys.
KTO operates under South Korea's Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism and maintains 30 overseas offices worldwide. The New Delhi office plays a critical role in the region, coordinating with local travel trade and media to enhance South Korea's profile as a year-round destination.
Industry observers note that the Indian market's growth potential is significant. According to recent data from Agoda, Tokyo, Fukuoka and Osaka top the list of short-haul getaways for South Korean travellers, but inbound traffic from India is also on the rise, driven by increased air connectivity and visa facilitation. KTO's efforts in India are expected to complement initiatives such as KTO Canada's mobile LED campaign in Toronto, which similarly targets diaspora and adventure-seeking travellers.
Cho's extensive experience at KTO includes stints in marketing, trade relations and destination management. Her appointment signals continuity and a strategic focus on India as a key growth engine for Korean tourism. The office will continue to work with major Indian travel trade bodies and media outlets to drive awareness and bookings.
With India's outbound travel market projected to expand further, KTO's renewed push under Cho's direction is likely to include digital marketing campaigns, familiarisation trips for agents and media, and participation in travel trade shows such as SATTE and OTM. These efforts aim to position South Korea as a top-of-mind destination for Indian travellers seeking diverse experiences—from the bustling streets of Seoul and the historic sites of Gyeongju to the natural beauty of Jeju Island.
